Scotland Rural Development Programme (SRDP)

Applying to the SRDP will require knowledge of the objectives and set conditions of the scheme. Whilst a successful application cannot be guaranteed, SAC can assist you in scoping your proposals and maximising your opportunities. 

Access to some grant funding is non-competitive but may have financial limits.  Under the Rural Development Contract Scheme -  Rural Priorities, the funding allocation is on a competitive basis and support will be awarded to plans which best demonstrate regional social, environmental and economic benefits.  

Your proposals will be submitted to the Scottish Government as a Statement of Intent (SOI).  The SOI is a document which will register your interest in the Rural Development Contracts and will specifically outline who, what, where, when, why and how.  

SAC will guide you on which options and packages to apply for under the SRDP and can identify where specialist input will be required.

We will help develop your SOI to demonstrate linkages with regional priorities such as innovation and collaborative working, and highlight long term benefits and value for money.

SOIs are assessed by Government Case Officers and Rural  Project Assessment Committees (RPACs) and, if your SOI is accepted, you will be given the approval to proceed to a full application.  

All SOIs and applications are required to be submitted electronically to the Scottish Government's on-line system.